Couple plans to tie the knot on a shoestring

Wedding expected to ring in at thousands below national average

Wedding expected to ring in at thousands below national average

Because they are making their own invitations and thank yous, Bonenberger and Weiland stock up on coupons to craft stores. Buy-one-get-one deals can make your dollars stretch.

Watch out for hidden costs

"You almost have to think like a crook," Bonenberger said. Ask when your limo or DJ service starts charging you. Some will start charging you from the moment they leave their facilities, while others won't charge until they reach your homebase.

Consider the venue

Weiland said you might wind up with some unforeseen costs if you want to be married in a church but aren't a member. That said, you might be able to marry at a friend's or family member's church free of cost.

For the reception venue, comparison shop. If a venue charges more but provides the catering, see whether you'll end up saving money with the combo rather than hiring your own caterer.

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Don't go at it alone

Bonenberger's sister-in-law Christine Nicole Bonenberger said she did most of the planning for her wedding alone - something she wishes she could go back and change. It just added to the stress.